What is cultural shock?

Cultural shock refers to the feelings of disorientation and confusion that individuals experience when they encounter a culture that is significantly different from their own. This phenomenon often arises when someone immerses themselves in an unfamiliar social environment, leading to a sense of being overwhelmed by new customs, values, and social norms.

When people move to a new country, study abroad, or even interact with diverse communities, they may find themselves struggling to understand and navigate the local ways of life, which can result in feelings of alienation or frustration. This aspect of cultural shock is often characterized by a stark contrast between the familiar and the unfamiliar, prompting significant emotional and psychological responses.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of cultural shock. Excitement about visiting a new place may describe an initial reaction but does not encompass the challenges that come with adjusting to a new cultural reality. Adapting to a new culture reflects a process that follows cultural shock rather than defining it. Lastly, the easing of cultural differences suggests a gradual reduction in disorientation but does not represent the initial, often jarring experience that is central to cultural shock itself.